IGP Egbetokun and Governor Sanwo-Olu Celebrate New Police Constables at Passing-Out Parade

 

By Oki Samson

 

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, emphasized the significant impact of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval for the annual recruitment of 30,000 new officers, as it will substantially address the Nigeria Police’s manpower deficit. This statement was made during the passing-out parade of the 2022 batch of Police Constables, which took place yesterday at the Police College in Ikeja, Lagos.

 

 

 

Similar events were held concurrently at Premier Colleges and 12 Police Training Schools nationwide, marking the completion of six months of rigorous training.

 

Notable attendees included Secretary to the Lagos State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, representing Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu; IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, represented by AIG Adegoke Mustapha Fayoade of Zone 2 Police Command; Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Argungu (retired), represented by Mrs. E Ajayi Daniels; the Oba of Lagos, represented by the White Caps Chief; CP Olanrewaju Ishola, Commissioner of Police for Lagos State Command; CP Omolara Ibidun Oloruntola, Commandant of Police College Ikeja; DCP Bayo Suleiman, Commandant of Police Training School; commanders from Sister Security Agencies; and other senior police officers.

 

 

Speaking through AIG Adegoke Fayoade, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun highlighted the importance of the event: “Today’s passing-out parade marks a pivotal transition for these individuals as they officially become professional police officers, leaving their civilian status behind and starting a career of service and duty.”

 

He further stated, “The successful completion of these recruits’ training and today’s graduation ceremony represents a significant milestone and a major advancement for the federal government. Under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, this achievement demonstrates the government’s commitment to the Nigeria Police Force by addressing the longstanding manpower shortage.”

 

“The President’s approval for the annual recruitment of 30,000 police constables in the coming years is expected to bolster internal security, enhance police performance, and promote optimal service delivery nationwide.”

 

 

IGP Egbetokun also advised the new officers, “Your role requires empathy and compassion towards civilians, especially the vulnerable, while maintaining firmness and fairness in all interactions. Strive to be seen as friends and partners of the public, instilling hope and confidence in the security apparatus.”

 

Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, represented by Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, expressed his delight: “I am particularly pleased to know that 266 Lagosians are among the recruits who have successfully completed this demanding six-month course.

 

 

I extend my congratulations and best wishes to all of you. My gratitude goes to CP Ishola Olanrewaju, the teachers, and the faculty of the police college for their dedicated guidance and care for the recruits.

 

 

To the parents and guardians, congratulations. Your hard work and sacrifices have brought you to this moment, and I know you are proud of these young men and women.”

 

Addressing the new recruits, the Governor added, “As you begin this noble career, remember that you are now ambassadors of the Nigeria Police Force and representatives of our state.

 

Uphold the highest ethical standards, demonstrate professionalism, and treat every citizen with respect and fairness, regardless of their background.”

 

 

CP Omolara Ibidun Oloruntola, Commandant of Police College Ikeja, remarked, “Today marks a significant milestone for these young officers who have undergone physical, intellectual, and academic training to join our esteemed institution. Their unwavering commitment to serving Nigeria is commendable, and we are proud to have them as part of our team.”

 

She advised the new officers, “Uphold integrity and embrace community policing as the best legal practice. Always consider the principle of fundamental human rights as enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution.”

 

 

Representing DIG Hashimu Argungu (retired), Mrs. Ajayi Daniels assured the new officers of continued support from the Commission: “We will ensure your career progression is predictable and adheres to established rules and regulations. The Police Service Commission is mandated by Section 153 of the 1999 Constitution to appoint, recruit, and enlist officers.”

 

She urged the new officers, “Reciprocate the government’s support by working in partnership with other security agencies to address the security challenges facing our nation. The Commission will closely monitor your activities and will not hesitate to act against any deviations from established police rules of engagement. We will also recognize and commend dedication to duty.”

 

 

Awards were presented to the top three Constables for their exceptional performance during training: Recruit No. 0624 Akanji Khadijah (Overall Best Recruit for Specialist), Recruit No. 0018 Ekungbami Daniel (Overall Best Recruit for Drill), and Recruit No. 0231 Ojo Samuel (Overall Best Recruit for General Duty).